It’s late spring in the Washington DC area, and as one of the fittest areas of the nation, we love to get outside and enjoy sports and recreational activities. Last week we gave you a list of fantastic options for golf and tennis.
This week we have a list of our favorite public basketball courts and swimming pools for summer family fun. Most basketball courts also have playgrounds, walking trails, and other sports options like baseball and tennis, meaning there is something for everyone!
The weather is warming up, and the pandemic is waning–so get outside and enjoy the sun, fresh air, and family time.
Public Basketball Courts:
Kennedy Recreation Center
This recreation center offers a bit of something for everyone, especially those looking to play pickup basketball. Bring the kids along to enjoy the recently renovated playground complex full of activities for the kiddos, including slides, swings, and a spray park.
Adults can enjoy the lighted basketball court next to the park, a horseshoe pit, tennis courts, a baseball field, and a cement jogging/biking trail. The Kennedy Recreation Center has a co-op play program for children eight months to five years old.
Registration is required. 1407 7th St. N.W. Washington, DC 20001 (202) 671-4792
Turtle Park
Another family-friendly park where you can shoot some hoops is Turtle Park. This park features two basketball courts, two tennis courts, and four baseball/softball fields. Nearly all the round ball sports are covered here.
There’s a safe area for the kids to cut loose with a state-of-the-art jungle gym, toddler swings, a sandbox. On those hot days, the kids (and brave adults) can cool down in the spray park.
Officially known as Friendship Park, DC residents affectionately named the park Turtle Park for its five giant turtle statues near the play area. 45th St. and Van Ness St. Washington, DC 20016
Rose Park
If you’re looking for an excellent location for a pickup basketball game, check out the court at Rose Park. This park and its beautiful open space offer much beyond just basketball. You’ll find three tennis courts, a baseball diamond, and two playgrounds for the kids.
This is yet another opportunity to bring the entire family along to enjoy a picnic lunch or just to explore along the walking paths. You’ll feel secure any time of day with attractive ornamental lighting and upgraded fencing. Keep an eye out for events hosted at the park, including concerts, summer camps, and boy scout troop meetings, along with no-pay family-friendly movies.
Public Swimming Pools
If you’re a DC resident, you can swim for free at pools managed by the Department of Parks of Recreation. You can just show up to get your resident pass with proof of residence. For those coming from outside DC, a day pass for an adult can be purchased for $7. Children under 6 are only $3, and another $1 more for children 6-17. The senior discount for those 55 years old and over is the same at $4.
For a complete list of area outdoor swimming pools, click here. In the meantime, here are four of our favorites.
Langdon Park Pool
Whether it’s for exercise or just getting the kids out of the house, consider heading to the Langdon Park Pool to break up those hot days. Langdon Park Pool is a small community pool on the east end of Langdon Park. Anchored between two neighborhoods, this pool is a favorite for all ages, and with the recent renovations looks to make the 2021 season a blast.
Banneker Pool
A popular choice for taking a dip is the Banneker, one of the most well-used pools in the city. Swimmers of all ages and skill levels will enjoy this large pool at Banneker Recreation Center Park. Alongside eight tennis courts and two ball fields, this location is ripe for sports participation. Plenty of snacks and cold beverages can be purchased at the recently added concession stand.
Oxon Run Pool
Those who live in the Ward 8 area know that Oxon Run Park holds a bit of an oasis when the hot months roll in. With its unique L-Shape design, the Oxon Run Pool will keep everyone in your household cool and entertained this Summer.
Francis Pool
If you’re looking for a great pool in the middle of the West End, Francis Pool is the place to splash down. The city’s busiest outdoor pool, Francis, is conveniently found at 2435 N Street, NW. If you’re looking to swim, learn to swim, or just put in some time sunbathing, this large pool has got you covered. Those wanting to get their heart rate up, sign up for a water aerobics class, or swim some distance in one of the two 25 yard lap lanes.
If you or your children love to swim, play sports or just enjoy DC’s outdoor spaces, a home near your favorite pool or park might just be what you’re looking for. Let one of our experienced Eng Garcia realtors help you find the home of your dreams in a neighborhood convenient to everything our fine city has to offer.